Year 11 subject descriptions

Accounting | Art | Biology | Chemistry | Economics | English and English (E.S.L) | English Language | Geography | Information Technology | Legal Studies | Mathematics | Mathematical Methods | Media Studies | Music Perfomance Solo Practice | Physics | Psychology | Visual Communication & Design

Accounting (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Unit 1 focuses on accounting and financial management of a small business.  The unit introduces students to the fundamental process of gathering, recording, reporting of financial information for use of an individual in a small business.  The students are introduced to the use of information and communication technology in undertaking accounting procedures.  In Unit 2 the emphasis is on accounting and financial operations of a sole proprietor trading business.  Students will be introduced to an accounting system using the accrual approach for recording and reporting which recognises the impact of credit transactions.  Where appropriate, accounting procedures developed in each area of study will focus on the application of accounting principles and the qualitative characteristics of accounting reports. Students use information and communication technology to evaluate the performance of a business.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Record, report and explain the financial information of sole-proprietor service businesses, using manual and information and communications technology methods.
2. Identify and explain the financial needs of both sole-proprietor service businesses and of an owner, and describe ways in which accounting contributes to effective decision making for there businesses.

Unit 2

1. Record financial data and analyse financial information for sole-proprietor trading businesses using manual and information and communications technology methods.
2. Identify and describe the decision-making needs of a sole proprietor operating a trading business.

Assessment

Assessment tasks for each unit include computer applications and class exercises, class tests, assignment and an end of semester examination.

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Art (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

This study is designed to enable students to learn about visual arts through their own exploration in art production.  Students will be exposed to a wide variety of media, techniques and ideas and should develop the ability to think and act in imaginative, analytical, critical and reflective ways through the production and appreciation of art.  Through the study of art history and practice of arts criticism, students will focus upon the relationship of art and society as well as the role that artists play in different historical and cultural settings.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Present visual solutions to set tasks through experimentation with a range of materials, techniques and processes, in a particular media and/or art form.
2. Identify and discuss relationship between art and society with reference to selected art works.

Unit 2

1. Demonstrate through media investigations, technical development and varied solutions in the visual exploration of ideas and issues.
2. Identify and discuss different expressions of artistic identity and innovation with reference to selected art works.

Assessment

Students are assessed on art history coursework tasks, art production tasks and the end of semester examination.

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Biology (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Unit 1 examines the cell as the structural and functional unit of the whole organism. I also examines the functional and structural characteristics of organisms, and similarities and differences between plants and animals. Unit 2 examines the rich diversity of Australian ecosystems by investigating adaptations in both animals and plants that enable them to survive. Homeostasis and ecology are both considered.

Outcomes

Unit 1

1. An investigation related to cellular structure, organisation and processes.
2. Description and explanation of the relationship between features and requirements of functioning organisms and how these are used to construct taxonomic systems.

Unit 2

1. Explanation and analysis of the relationship between environmental factors and adaptations and distribution of living things.
2. Design, conduct and report on a field investigation related to the interactions between living things and their environment and explain how ecosystems change over time.

Assessment

There are four assessment tasks in Unit 1 and four in Unit 2. In both Units, these are:

1. practical work
2. class tests
3. an individual research project
4. a Unit examination.

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Chemistry (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Unit 1 examines a range of chemical processes and activities through the study of common materials and water.  It aims to familiarise students with the structures of substances in everyday use, the importance to life of water and its use as a medium for chemical reactions.  The structures of surfaces and the nature of interactions occurring at surfaces is also included.  In Unit 2 a wide range of chemical reactions, which occur in the biosphere, are investigated.  Emphasis is placed on writing of chemical equations and calculations based on them.  Through discussion of gases and appropriate chemical concepts students are able to evaluate the environment impact of human activity on the biosphere.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Categorize materials and relate their structures to a range of chemical and physical properties, including those surfaces.
2. Demonstrate understanding of the covalent bonding between atoms including the formation of new carbon-carbon bonds during the process of addition polymerisation.
3. Demonstrate a qualitative and quantitative understanding of the way ionic and non-ionic substances dissolve in water and of interactions between solutes.

Unit 2

1. Formulate and write balanced equations and apply these qualitatively and quantitatively to reactions involving acids and bases, and oxidants and reductants.
2. Demonstrate understanding of the chemical and physical behaviour of gases.
3. Demonstrate understanding of chemical processes in living and non-living systems, which have significance for the environment.

Assessment

A number of assessment tasks contribute to the final level of achievement in both Units 1 & 2.  These include: practical work; short reports; oral, poster and multimedia presentations; construction and simulation of molecules; bonding formulas; modelling; and tests.  In each unit there will be a semester examination.

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Economics (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Unit 1 focuses on the study of markets, economic decision-making and two issues of importance to the Australian economy. The two issues are Population, Employment and Change, and Growing the Economy.  In Unit 2 the focus is on Australia’s external relationships and the economic issues of importance in the Global economy.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Explain how markets work, how economic decisions are made in the Australian economy and how to apply economic decision making to solve economic problems.
2. Use the tools and methods of economics to analyse and evaluate contemporary Australian economic issues and appreciate the changing nature of economic issues in Australia.

Unit 2

1. Apply economic concepts, skills and knowledge to the operation of the Australian economy in a global context.
2. Explain the reasons for the emergence of globalisation and evaluate the impact of globalisation on the nature and performance of the Australian economy.

Assessment

The level of achievement is based on a student’s performance on a number of assessment tasks in each semester:

1. Applied economic exercises.
2. Folio.
3. Investigation of an economic issue.
4. Examination.

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English and English (E.S.L.) (Units 1 & 2)

Separate classes will be established for local students and for students from overseas for whom English is a second language.

Course Description

This study involves students in extending their language skills through developing their capacity to speak and write effectively for a range of purposes in a variety of ways as well as developing an understanding of how the media presents information.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Identify and discuss ideas, themes and issues in set texts and construct a response in written or oral form.
2. Communicate effectively in writing, taking into account context, purpose and audience.
3. Identify and discuss how language can be used to persuade readers and/or viewers.

Unit 2

1. Discuss and analyse how texts convey ways of thinking about the characters, ideas and themes and construct a response in oral or written form.
2. Create and present texts taking account of purpose, audience and context.
3. Identify and analyse how language is used in a persuasive text and to present a reasoned point of view in an oral or a written form.

Assessment

At the end of each semester students will sit a written examination.  In addition, students will complete a number of assessed tasks for each of the outcomes.  All tasks will have equal weighting i.e. each outcome in each semester is weighted equally.

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English Language (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

The study of English Language examines the nature of human language, how it affects the way we think and communicate; and combines this with learning how to use English more effectively and creatively.  Using the discipline of linguistics, the study includes a systematic exploration of the nature of English and practises skills in description and analysis of a diverse range of English texts, including written and spoken varieties.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Identify and describe primary aspects of the nature and functions of human language.
2. Analyze what children learn when they acquire language and explain a range of perspectives on how language is acquired.
3. Analyze aspects of the nature and functions of spoken and written language.

Unit 2

1. Investigate how language change takes place and anaylze a range of attitudes to language change.
2. Identify changes in each of the subsystems of language throughout a historical study of English.

Assessment

Students are required to complete six assessed tasks in each Unit (12 in total), including an examination at the end of each semester.

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Geography (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Geography is the study of places on the earth, the people who live there and the environments that support them.  Unit 1 investigates three very different and fascinating places, coasts, Vietnam and wilderness areas.  The focus of Unit 2 is the “living conditions”, the natural environments, such as climate, weather and landscapes, together with the built environments, such as housing, towns, cities and farms, in which people go about their daily activities.  The living conditions in Melbourne are investigated and then compared with those in the countries that our students come from.  Improvement of living conditions, through consideration of topics such as debt, globalisation and aid, follows.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Describe geographical characteristics for places that have been changed mainly by human activities or natural processes.
2. Describe and analyze the natural processes and human activities that alter places.
3. Predict how natural processes and human activities may alter places.

Unit 2

1. Analyze data to describe spatial variations in people’s living conditions within and between regions.
2. Explain the factors which contribute to the development of spatial variations in living conditions.
3. Develop and justify a program designed to improve the quality of life of a community abroad.

Assessment

The assessment tasks are:

• Recording and reporting on data collection in the field.
• Data processing and presentations – maps, graphs.
• Research report.
• Written reports.
• Examination.

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Information Technology (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Unit 1 focuses on how individuals use, and can be affected by, information and communications technology (ICT) in their daily lives.  Students acquire and apply a range of knowledge and skills to create information that persuades, educates or entertains.  Unit 2 focuses on how individuals and organisations, such as sporting clubs, charitable institutions, small businesses and government agencies use ICT.  Students are required to create solutions and information products that meet personal and clients’ needs.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Transform an existing printed information product into an on-screen information product to meet a specific audience need and evaluate the success of this information product.
2. Solve an information problem by collecting data and using database management software to manipulate that data.
3. Create an on-screen information product that presents an analysis of a contemporary ICT issue and substantiates a point of view.

Unit 2

1. Demonstrate progression in the ability to use a programming or scripting language, record the learning progress electronically, and explain possible career pathways that require the use of the software skills.
2. Represent a networked information system within an organisation, and describe the way a specified set of data flows through the system.
3. Design a solution and an information product for a client, taking into account client feedback, solve the information problem, and evaluate the solution and product.

Assessment

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit.  This decision will be based on the student’s overall performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit.

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Legal Studies (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Units 1 & 2 examine the broad issues related to why we have laws and how such laws influence individuals and the society we live in.  A detailed study of criminal law and civil law is undertaken in Unit 1.  Unit 2 focuses on road law and related issues, and the laws concerned with sport.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Identify the need for laws and recognize the significance of law to their life.
2. Demonstrate understanding of how laws are made and enforced.
3. Explain key aspects of an individual’s rights and responsibilities.

Unit 2

1. Identify legal problems facing citizens and investigate means by which these problems may be resolved through alternative methods of dispute resolution.
2. Assess the role of law in society and analyze its effectiveness in promoting social harmony.
3. Analyze factors influencing change in the law.

Assessment

Assessment will be school based.  Students will undertake a range of tasks including: a folio, a case study, role play, essays, tests and formal examinations.

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Mathematics (Units 1 & 2)

General Mathematics

Course Description

There are two streams of study in General Mathematics.

Standard General Mathematics:
This subject prepares students for their study of Further Mathematics Year 12.
This course builds on work in arithmetic, algebra and geometry which students have studied in Year 10, or an equivalent course, and adds statistics and a study of basic functions.
Topics studied include: univariate data, bivariate data, variation, sequences and series, linear graphs and modelling, linear programming, linear relations and equations, non-linear relations and equations, shape and measurement, coordinate geometry, and trigonometric ratios and their applications.

Advanced General Mathematics:
This subject prepares students for their study of Specialist Mathematics Year 12. 
This course builds on work in arithmetic, algebra and geometry which students have studied in Year 10, or an equivalent course, and adds statistics and a study of basic functions.  Topics studied include: real and complex number systems, variation, linear graphs and modelling, linear relations and equations, non-linear relations and equations, coordinate geometry, vectors, Kinematics, sketching and interpreting linear and non-linear graphs, trigonometric identities and trigonometric ratios and their applications.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1 & 2

1. Define and explain key concepts, in relation to the topics from the selected areas of study, and apply a range of related mathematical routines and procedures.
2. Apply mathematical processes in non-routine contexts and analyze and discuss these applications of mathematics in at least three of the areas of study.
3. Use technology to produce results and carry out analysis in situations requiring problem solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches in at least three of the areas of study.

Assessment

1. Class Tests/Assessment Tasks 34%
2. Examination 1   22%
3. Examination 2   44%

An overall achievement grade for each unit will also be given.

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Mathematical Methods

Course Description

This course builds on work in arithmetic, algebra and geometry which students have studied in Year 10 or an equivalent course, and introduces the concepts of functions, calculus and probability.  This subject is designed to give students a solid basis for, and is a prerequisite for, Mathematical Methods 3 & 4 (Year 12).  The course concentrates largely on the study of graphs, and their use in many types of mathematical situations.  Topics studied include: functions and their graphs – polynomial functions, circular functions and exponential functions; algebra of the above functions; calculus of the above functions; probability including probability distributions.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1 & 2

1. Define and explain key concepts as apecified in the content from the ‘Functions and graphs’, ‘Algebra’, ‘Calculus’ and ‘Probability’ areas of study, and to apply a range of related mathematical routines and procedures.
2. Apply mathematical processes in non-routine contexts and analyze and discuss these applications of mathematics.
3. Use technology to produce results and carry out analysis in situations requiring problem solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches.

Assessment

1. Class Tests/Assessment Tasks 34%
2. Examination 1   22%
3. Examination 2   44%

An overall achievement grade for each unit will also be given.

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Media Studies (Units 1 &2)

Course Description

The study of media includes:

• Audiovisual media (film, television, radio, video, photography)
• Print based media (newspapers, magazines and related publications)
• Digital media technologies (the internet, computer games and interactive multimedia)
• Media and cross media processes and production, popular music, popular culture,
• Cyberculture and virtual worlds, convergence and hybridisation,
• Information dissemination and retrieval technologies

Assessment

Assessment outcomes for these units are varied. Some examples that will be used are:

• Radio or audio sequences;
• Audiovisual or video sequences;
• Photographs;
• Print layouts;
• Multimedia sequences or presentations (including website and data presentations.
• Posters;
• Tests;
• Written responses;
• Oral reports.

Students in Units 1 and 2 will be assessed on a range of both practical, written and examination results.

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Music Performance Solo Practice (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Playing an instrument or singing is the main focus of Music Performance.  Students should aim to improve their technical skills and knowledge of a wide variety of music.  Instruction is through individual instrument or singing lessons and class lessons.  Performances and attendance at master classes and concerts makes this subject an enjoyable friendly activity as well as a very useful subject for university entrance.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1

1. Perform a program of contrasting solo and group works, unprepared performance and selected solo technical work.
2. Analyze and evaluate influences on works being prepared for performance and approaches that can be used to optimize performance of those works.
3. Recognize and write scales, intervals and chords, transcribe rhythms and melodies, use conventions in music notation and describe how instruments are used in combination.
4. Analyze music being prepared for performance and use scales, intervals, chords, rhythms, melodies and instruments in combination to develop music ideas through composition or improvisation.

Unit 2

1. Demonstrate a developing artistry/mastery in performing a program of contrasting works and selected technical work.
2. Analyze the structure and style of works selected for solo performance or other works in a similar style that identifies the expressive features of the work.
3. Recognize and write scales, intervals and chords, transcribe rhythms and melodies, use conventions in music notation and describe how instruments are used in combination.

Assessment

Assessment is based on a range of tasks that demonstrate achievement of the specified outcomes.  Tasks might include: solo performance recital, group performance, technical work and sight reading, written reports and written and oral tests.

The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music is represented in Australia by Taylors College.  It is expected that all Music Performance students will present for an Associated Board Examination to gain their end of year assessment grading.  The Associated Board qualification is universally recognized and provides opportunity to apply for entrance to music faculties in Australia and overseas.

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Physics (Units 1 & 2)

Preliminary Study Required

Although there are no pre-requisites for entry to Units 1 or 2, students who are studying mathematics at Year 11 level will find this to be an advantage.

Course Description

This study is designed to enable students to become familiar with the language, methods and major ideas of physics, and to prepare for careers in physics-related areas.  Unit 1 deals with the wave-like properties of light, nuclear and radioactivity physics, as well as a detailed study chosen from astronomy, medical physics or nuclear energy.  Unit 2 deals with movement, electricity and a detailed study chosen from alternative energy sources, astrophysics or aerospace.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1
Unit 1 consists of two prescribed areas of study: Wave-like properties of light; Nuclear and radioactivity physics; and a detailed study Energy from the Nucleus.

Area of Study 1:
WAVE-LIKE PROPERTIES OF LIGHT

Students will learn how to:

• describe transverse and longitudinal waves in terms of particle motion, amplitude, wavelength, period and frequency; 
• identify visible light as a particular region of a spectrum of transverse electromagnetic radiation;
• describe the polarisation of light and the colour components of visible light
• apply a ray model to behaviours of light including reflection, refraction and total internal reflection;
• describe refraction and colour dispersion using Snell's Law and refractive index;
• describe the behaviour of light in light pipes and optical fibres and the effects of material dispersion and modal dispersion in an optical fibre;

Area of Study 2:
NUCLEAR AND RADIOACTIVITY PHYSICS

Students will learn how to:

• describe radioactive decay in terms of half-life;
• apply a simple particle model of the atomic nucleus to the origin of α, β and γ radiation including changes to the number of nucleons, detection and penetrating properties; they will  describe the short- and long-term effects of α, β and γ  radiation on humans, organisms and the environment
• describe nuclear transformations and decay series;
• describe natural and artificial isotopes and neutron absorption as one means of production of artificial radioisotopes;

Area of Study 3:
Detailed Study - ENERGY FROM THE NUCLEUS
 
Students will study the energy available from the fusing of the nuclei of small atoms, and thus the radiant energy of stars, including the Sun. The progress towards using fusion processes as an energy source will be discussed, as will the use of fission reactions in providing power in reactors. This will involve consideration of nuclear fuels, moderators, cooling systems and chain reactions. The environmental problems of radioactive disposal of radioactive waste will be studied.

Unit 2

Unit 2 consists of two prescribed areas of study: Movement; Electricity; and a detailed study Astrophysics.

Area of Study 1:
MOVEMENT

Students will learn to:

• describe and analyse motion along a straight line graphically, numerically and algebraically;
• describe how changes in movement are caused by the actions of forces and apply Newton's three laws of motion,;
• compare the accounts of the action of forces by Aristotle, Galileo and Newton;
• apply the vector model of forces, including vector addition, vector substraction and components, to readily observable forces including weight, friction and reaction forces;
• model mathematically work as force multiplied by distance for a constant force and as area under a force versus distance graph;
• interpret energy transfers and transformations using an energy conservation model applied to ideas of work, energy and power.

Area of Study 2:
ELECTRICITY

Students will learn to:

• develop circuit models to analyse electrical phenomena
• undertake practical investigations of circuit components.
• develop concepts of electrical safety through the study of safety mechanisms and the effect of current and time on humans.
• apply mathematical models and critically assess the operation of DC circuits.
• use electrical circuits in the contexts of simple battery operated DC devices, household electricity, and car electrical systems.

Area of Study 3:
Detailed Study - ASTROPHYSICS

This study looks at the nature of stars, galaxies and their evolution, as well as evidence about the steady state and 'Big Bang' models of the Universe.

Student will develop the knowledge and skills to:

• compare the steady state and Big Bang models of the nature and origin of the Universe;
• explain the link between the Doppler Effect and Hubble's observations;
• apply a qualitative understanding of methods used for measurements of the distances to stars and galaxies;
• explain the formation of galaxies, stars, and planets;
• describe the properties of stars: luminosity, radius and mass, temperature and spectral type;
• use the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram to describe types of stars, their evolution and death;
• explain fusion as the energy source of a star;
• compare the Milky Way galaxy to other galaxies;
• describe characteristics of the Sun as a typical star, including size, mass, energy output, colour and information obtained from the Sun's radiation spectrum.

Assessment

Students will complete assessment tasks such as practical work and tests, and two examinations to determine the level of achievement reached.

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Psychology (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Psychology is the study of the nature and development of mind and behaviour in both humans and animals, including the biological structures and processes that underpin and sustain both.  Students can develop an understanding of themselves and their relationships with others and their society.  It aims to engage students in the study of human behaviour from biological, cognitive and social perspectives.  Students are introduced to the variety of thinking and research approaches used and gain a broad perspective of the study as a science.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1
This unit introduces students to the scientific study of psychology as the investigation into human behaviour and the mental processes that determine it.  Students learn about the use of theories, models and controlled observations to describe and explain human behaviour.  Research methods and their associated critiques are integrated within the different methodological approaches to psychology.

Three areas of study are covered:

1. Introduction to Psychology: the nature and scope of psychology as a scientific discipline.  Students learn about the processes involved in psychological research, the evidence-based nature of findings and ethical principles in the practice and conduct of research.
2. Social relationships: behaviour as a consequence of environmental experiences.  Examples of pro-social and anti-social behaviour and factors influencing their occurrence are investigated as well as the influence of groups on individual behaviour.  Research methods and ethical principles are again incorporated.
3. Development of individual behaviour: perceptual and cognitive abilities.  Piaget’s theory is considered, together with recent research findings.  The development of social cognition and the changes that occur in human being’s understanding of themselves as they age is covered.

Unit 2
Students learn about different methods and models that describe and explain human behaviour.  Research methods continue to be integrated.

Three areas of study are covered:

1. Introduction to neurons and nervous system: the structure and role of neurons and the nervous system in the transmission of information.  The connection between neurotransmitters, Neuro modulators and disease.
2. Individual differences: scientific ways of describing and measuring “normality” and individual differences.  Methods of psychological assessment are evaluated. 
3. Social attitudes: how attitudes are formed, changed and measured.  The relationship between attitudes and prejudice.  Correlation techniques are applied to a student-designed questionnaire.

Assessment

Students must satisfactorily achieve a set of outcomes based on the 6 areas of study.  It is based on the teacher’s assessment of the student’s overall performance on assessment tasks chosen from; an essay, poster, multimedia presentation, empirical research activity, test or summary of research findings.

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Visual Communication & Design (Units 1 & 2)

Course Description

Visual Communication and Design involves drawing, designing and communicating.  Visual communicators in fields such as architecture, engineering, graphic design, multimedia design, industrial design, cartograpy, advertising and fashion all depend on graphics to communicate ideas and information.  This study is intended to assist students in the understanding, use and interpretation of a range of visual communications.  The main purpose of Unit 1 – Visual communication, is to enable students to prepare instrumental drawings of objects and explore freehand drawing from direct observation.  Students are also introduced to the visual communication process.  In Unit 2, communication in context, students develop practical skills by generating images and developing them through freehand and instrumental drawing.  The ways in which information and ideas are communicated visually is explored through analysing the work of others.  The visual communication production process is applied by modifying existing final presentations for specified audiences.

Learning Outcomes

Unit 1  Visual Communication

1. Complete instrumental drawings using a range of paraline drawing systems.
2. Draw from direct observation, in proportion, and render drawings.
3. Explore and apply design elements and principles to satisfy a stated purpose.
4. On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe the nature of the design process in the production of visual communications.

Unit 2  Communication in Context

1. On completion of this unit the student should be able to use freehand and instrumental drawings to develop images that represent and communicate form.
2. On completion of this unit the student should be able to use freehand drawings in the development of rendered three-dimensional images.
3. On completion of this unit the student should be able to apply a design process to develop a visual communication solution to a set task.
4. On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe and analyse contemporary and historical examples of visual communication and explain how they communicate ideas, present information and reflect influences.

Assessment

The award of satisfactory completion of the unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit, together with an end of unit examination.

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